Central Idea

• The Gujarat government’s decision to declare the ‘Ghol’ as the state fish highlights its uniqueness and economic value.

About Ghol Fish

• The Ghol fish or the Blackspotted Croaker, is a significant species in marine fisheries.
• It belongs to the family Sciaenidae and is scientifically known as Protonibea diacanthus.
• It is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Persian Gulf to Indonesia and north to Japan.
• The Ghol fish is characterized by its robust body, brownish color, and the presence of black spots on its sides.
• It has a large mouth and a slightly protruding lower jaw.
• This species can grow quite large, with some individuals reaching up to 1 meter in length and weighing around 25 kilograms.

Economic Value of Ghol

• The Ghol fish is highly valued, especially for its fish maw (dried swim bladder), which is a delicacy and used in traditional medicines, particularly in East Asian markets.
• The fish maw is believed to have various health benefits and is often used in soups and stews.
• It can fetch high prices in the market, sometimes as much as Rs 25,000 per kilogram.

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